Mayo restaurants have participated in life-saving allergic reaction training in recent weeks, the training was run by Mayo-based training company Allergy Lifestyle.

Founder of Allergy Lifestyle, Anne Walsh, understands the importance of anaphylaxis training as her daughter suffered a severe allergic reaction to peanuts coming up to her second birthday, inspiring Anne to establish Allergy Lifestyle to bring together products, resources, and training for anyone managing allergies and anaphylaxis.

Anne was delighted that the Castlebar restaurant community came on board to participate in certified training in the management of a serious life-threatening allergic reaction or anaphylaxis.

Participating restaurants included Al Muretto, Bar One, The Dining Room, House of Plates, MMM Family Bakery, all based in Castlebar, and Rustic Fork in Westport.

Awareness around the seriousness of food allergies has increased within the food service industry and many restaurants and hotels realise they need to not only train staff in food allergen information and avoiding cross contamination but also what steps they need to take should an allergic reaction take place.

It is an experience owner of House of Plates, Barry Ralph, knows only too well: “I had an allergic reaction a few years back at home from white chocolate from a non-listed ingredient.

“This gave me a fright and I think that it is so important for anybody to be able to spot the signs and react as quickly as possible. Thank God I got to the hospital in 10 minutes and everything was OK. I carry an adrenaline pen with me now as a precaution.”

Organisations such as restaurants, hotels, schools, creches, third level institutes, and clubs can participate in PHECC certified emergency medicine training. On successful completion of training, the organisations can hold emergency medicines on site for which they have been trained.

While most allergies develop in childhood, it is possible to develop an allergy at any age even if you have been eating the food without any problems previously, so restaurants are safer when staff have been trained to deal with such a reaction.

Founder of Allergy Lifestyle, Anne Walsh, believes lives will be saved if organisations take on this life-saving emergency medicine training. For more information log on to www.allergylifestyle.com or call (091 ) 442377.